Monticello, NY – Sullivan County has made $150,000 available for municipalities through two new community development incentive programs: Sullivan Signs and the Business-Friendly Zoning & Permitting programs.
The Sullivan Signs Program will assist local municipalities in enhancing the County’s image, identity, and sense of place, and improving visitor experiences, through upgrades and additions to welcome signs, pole or street light banners, historical markers, wayfinding and other types of signage.
Municipalities are invited to apply for up to $7,500 to assist with the design, production and installation of new signage. A minimum 25% match is required, which may be provided as cash, in-kind services or donated materials. Applications must be made by a Sullivan County municipality, but projects may be carried out in partnership with chambers, historical societies, or other community groups.
“We want to promote a spirit of hospitality and warmth throughout Sullivan County, and welcome signage often serves as that all-important first impression,” said Planning Commissioner Freda Eisenberg.
The Business-Friendly Zoning & Permitting Program aims to incentivize changes to local zoning codes and development review procedures in order to increase the efficiency and lower the expense of obtaining permits for new economic development — and conversely to remove barriers to small business development and expansion posed by cumbersome, unclear, and costly regulations and processes. Funding is available to support the costs of attorneys, planners and other professionals, permit-tracking technology, and related expenses.
“As a professional planner, I understand the challenges, confusion and expense businesses face while trying to launch or expand services and facilities,” noted District 9 Legislator Alan Sorensen, chair of the Legislature’s Planning Committee. “The County is uniquely positioned to help municipalities develop review processes that provide certainty to businesses while ensuring environmental protection.”
Administered by the Division of Planning and Community Development, the grant guidelines and application form are available on the Division’s page at co.sullivan.ny.us, under “Technical Assistance & Funding Opportunities.” Applications must be received by 4 p.m. on May 18. Completed applications may be submitted electronically or delivered to the Division of Planning & Community Development, County Government Center, 100 North Street, Monticello, NY 12701.
Applicants are encouraged to discuss any projects with the Division of Planning and Community Development prior to applying. Staff is available to answer questions and to assist municipalities with project development and applications. For more information, contact Shannon.Cilento@sullivanny.us, or call (845) 807-0529.
